Amphetamines Addiction

What are Amphetamines?

Amphetamines are prescription stimulant medications used for the treatment of ADD/ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity. Amphetamines are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that work by activating the brain’s release of dopamine and norepinephrine, which causes users to experience enhanced mental focus, heightened alertness, and improved concentration. These effects have made amphetamines like Adderal, Concerta, Vyvanse and Ritalin extremely popular “study drugs” amongst college students trying to keep up with heavy course loads.

Amphetamines can be taken orally, snorted, or injected intravenously. Symptoms of use will show approximately 15-20 minutes after ingestion, within 3-5 minutes if snorted, and immediately if injected. These effects can last several hours.

Why are Amphetamines Addictive?

Amphetamines are known for causing the user to experiences increased alertness, awareness and energy levels. College students commonly abuse amphetamines to pull all-nighters, taking advantage of the boost in both energy levels and concentration.

Amphetamines have addiction-forming effects, and some students can find it difficult to study without these drugs after repeated use. Withdrawals occur when you abruptly stop use after taking the medication for an extended period of time. Amphetamine withdrawal can cause psychological symptoms like extreme irritability and high levels of anxiety. If you are under the care of a physician it is important to stop the medication gradually to avoid these negative withdrawal symptoms.

Signs of Amphetamine Addiction (Short Term):

Feelings of euphoria

Increased energy and alertness

Increased body temperature

Rapid breathing

Decreased fatigue

Little to no appetite

Clenching of jaw

Grinding of teeth

Dilated pupils

Dry mouth

Signs of Amphetamine Abuse (Long Term):

Paranoia

High levels of irritability

Hostility

Aggressiveness

Irregular heartbeat

Cardiovascular system failure

Nausea

Headache

Hallucinations

Vision problems

Chest pain

Irregular heart-beat

Malnutrition

Psychosis

Health Concerns related with Amphetamine Addiction or Abuse:

Many of the health conditions associated with amphetamine abuse are serious health risks and should be considered as such. Just because a medication is prescribed by a doctor does not mean that the medication may not be harmful. If not taken appropriately and properly monitored by the physician, dangerous misuse can occur.

How is Amphetamine Abuse Treated?

Amphetamine addiction and abuse is treated with medication and behavioral therapy. The staff at Silicon Beach Outpatient Center includes medical directors and coordinators to assist patients with the management of medications while seeking treatment at our intensive outpatient program.

Additional information and case studies regarding opioid abuse and addiction can be found on the National Institute on Drug Abuse website.

Silicon Beach Outpatient Center is an intensive outpatient drug rehab in Los Angeles offering support and guidance for those looking for treatment of amphetamine abuse. Our dedicated staff provides therapy services and a support system throughout the treatment process. If you or someone you know is struggling with amphetamine or related substance addiction, call us now at 844.415.8198.